Day 1 – Sidi Naji
Meet in Mhamid El Ghizlane at 09:00 before beginning your trek into the Sahara, crossing the course of the Draa River south-west. Walking for approximately five to six hours, you head towards Sidi Naji, stopping for lunch beneath Tamarisk trees. The route introduces the region’s desert landscapes before reaching your first wilderness camp and overnight stay in a mobile tent at the base of low level dunes and trees.
Day 2 – Erg Zahar
Continue through Iriqui National Park towards the impressive dune region of Erg Zahar. The terrain gradually changes as larger dunes appear on the horizon. We plan to walk straight through to a late lunch today (approx. 4 hours), where we make camp at low-lying dunes at the base of the tall dune. Later in the day, climb to the summit of Erg Zahar to enjoy expansive sunset views across the surrounding desert before returning to camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 3 – Erg Sedrar
Today you reach the isolated dune field of Erg Sedrar, located beyond the Draa River, which we cross this morning near the former settlement of Erg Smar. This section of the trek offers a strong sense of remoteness and tranquillity. Take time to appreciate the silence of the Sahara before settling into camp and enjoying another evening beneath the stars. Ask your guide about the Dorcas gazelle, sandfish, and Fennec fox.
Day 4 – Bougarn
Leaving Erg Sedrar behind, you cross a series of smaller dunes before traversing a broad desert plateau. Along the way, desert vegetation gradually becomes more noticeable, creating a contrast with previous days. Your guide shares insights into the landscape and environment before you arrive at camp for the evening and overnight stay.
Day 5 – Lbor
The route continues through areas with increasing vegetation, and we criss-cross former river tributaries. Lunch is enjoyed beneath the shade of Tamarisk trees before the afternoon walk crosses terrain that was once fertile land. Keep an eye out for wildlife and birdlife (e.g. season-dependent, Bee-eaters, Kites, Cream-coloured Courser, Marsh Harrier, Kestrel) as you continue through the changing desert environment.
Day 6 – Mhamid
Your final day leads back towards Mhamid El Ghizlane, completing the six-day circuit. Desert scrub, earth banks and increasing numbers of palm trees signal your return to settled areas. After reaching the village, the trek concludes, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the landscapes and biodiversity of the Moroccan Sahara.
